• D. Ramnajulu

Rural tourism plays a crucial role in empowering rural communities in India, particularly in states like Andhra Pradesh. It offers alternative sources of income and employment in agricultural and mountainous regions, contributing to rural revitalisation. In Andhra Pradesh, rural tourism initiatives have been implemented alongside other community development programs, such as HIV awareness campaigns, which have helped empower low-literacy communities. Interestingly, while rural tourism can bring economic benefits, it also presents challenges. In some cases, the main beneficiaries of rural tourism policies are not necessarily local residents, raising questions about the equitable distribution of benefits. Additionally, while initially effective, the government-led model of rural tourism development may lead to insufficient endogenous power in the long term, necessitating a shift towards greater participation of multiple stakeholders. But, rural tourism in India and Andhra Pradesh has the potential to empower communities through increased income opportunities and improved awareness. However, to maximize its benefits, it is crucial to address challenges such as elite capture in community-based resource management and ensure that tourism development aligns with the needs and aspirations of local populations. Future initiatives should focus on creating comprehensive frameworks for rural tourism at both state and national levels, with integrated provisions for marketing and legislation developed in collaboration with local stakeholders.

Rural tourism, Rural empowerment, Andhra Pradesh, Local Challenges, Sustainable livelihood

"Harnessing Rural Tourism for Socio-Economic Empowerment of Rural Communities in Andhra Pradesh", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no.256-262, March-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06049.pdf

"Harnessing Rural Tourism for Socio-Economic Empowerment of Rural Communities in Andhra Pradesh", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no. pp256-262, March-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRGU06049.pdf